Following the reactions sparked off by the meeting between the International Olympic Committee and the International Federations on Friday 27 November, which were recently published in the press, the International Cycling Union (UCI) would like to make its official position known on the various subjects discussed at this meeting.

The UCI has been faced with the problem of doping for many years and its commitment is clearly demonstrated by the constant improvements in its global strategy in terms of controls and prevention. Moreover, the extent of its investment in the fight against doping (around 4.300.000 Swiss Francs in 1999) has enabled the introduction of unique antidoping control and medical monitoring programmes.

In this way, the UCI has shown its intention to fight this scourge by introducing a complete programme and not just limiting itself to discussion on sanctions.

It should be noted that in comparison with a lot of other sports, during his career a racing cyclist is obliged to undergo many more controls than other athletes in the majority of other sports. Moreover, it should be remembered that out of the endurance sports, only the Cycling, Skiing and Biathlon Federations conduct blood tests to limit the abuse of EPO.

We would also like to stress that the UCI hopes that scientists will soon find an effective means of detecting EPO and other undetectable products.

With regard to sanctions, the UCI continues to defend the principle of proportionality as a legal basis, which requires that consideration be given above all to the effects of a particular sanction. For example, a one year suspension for a professional cyclist or a tennis player has greater repercussions than for an amateur.

This reasoning is supported by an enquiry conducted by the Danish NOC (Idraetsliv, Berlignske Tidende and Gallup A/s) which has shown that the majority of the population in the biggest traditional cycling countries approves the sanctions imposed by the UCI for doping offences.

75% of Germans, 75% of French, 62% of Italians and 68% of Spaniards approved these sanctions and some even believe that they should be reduced.

How do you feel about the UCI/Cycling's position on doping sanctions (compared to the IOC)? Post your comments on the Forums.

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